To the dismay of thousands of students who have studied in the city, JK Rowling has just dispelled a longstanding Exeter urban legend.

The Harry Potter author said she has never even visited The Old Fire House in her life, the pub which held a long-standing urban myth among students and Exonians that it was the inspiration for The Leaky Cauldron.

Her rebuttal was shared to her 14 million Twitter followers, who span the globe.

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Jon Clyne, Director at Charles Darrow commented: “Having known the Directors for many years, a confidential disposal was the only way in which we could preserve the quality of the operation and we were delighted to agree terms to City Pub Group in quick fashion.

"Having completed the transaction late last year, the business continues to trade in the same vein as in past years, with no major changes planned.

"Quality freeholds such as the Old Fire House are few and far between and whilst the sale price is undisclosed, we believe it is the highest value sale of a freehold public house without letting accommodation, ever sold in Devon.”

The Old Fire House is the only City Pub Group purchase in Devon so far, joined in the Westcountry by Bath Brew House and Bristol's King Street Brew House and Prince Street Social.

Update:

Jon Clyne of Charles Darrow said: "We would like to clarify that it was not marketed or purchased based on a connection with Harry Potter despite the links the city has."